Most people think of dry eye as simply a lack of moisture - but sometimes there’s much more to the story. Dry eye disease is a complex condition that affects the quality and stability of your tears. When the tear film isn’t functioning properly, the surface of your eyes can become irritated, inflamed, and uncomfortable. Recognizing the signs early is key to preventing long-term damage and maintaining clear, comfortable vision.

Understanding the Tear Film & Why It Matters

Your tear film is made up of three layers - oil, water, and mucus. Each plays an important role in keeping your eyes lubricated and protected. If any part of this system is out of balance, your tears can evaporate too quickly or fail to spread evenly across your eyes. This imbalance is often the root cause behind chronic dry eye symptoms.

Common Causes of Dry Eye: It’s Not Always About Tears

Two of the most common underlying causes of dry eye involve the eyelids and the oil glands within them. One of the leading contributors is Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD). The meibomian glands produce the vital oil layer of your tears, and when these glands become blocked or inflamed, the oil can’t flow properly. As a result, the tears evaporate too quickly, leaving your eyes unprotected and prone to irritation and dryness. MGD is a major driver of evaporative dry eye, the most prevalent type of the condition.

Another common cause is blepharitis, which is inflammation of the eyelid margins. This condition is often associated with bacteria or debris that collects around the eyelashes. Blepharitis can make the eyes feel gritty, red, and irritated, and it frequently interacts with MGD, further disrupting tear film stability. When these two conditions occur together, they can significantly increase discomfort and dry eye symptoms.

More Than Just Dryness: Symptoms to Watch For

Dry eye does not always present as dryness. Early signs may include:

•           Burning or stinging sensation

•           Red, watery eyes

•           Fluctuating or blurred vision

•           Light sensitivity

•           Grittiness or feeling like something is in the eye

•           Discomfort while reading or using screens

•           Difficulty wearing contact lenses

If you’re experiencing these symptoms frequently, it may be time to schedule an evaluation.

Why Early Diagnosis Makes a Difference

Dry eye is a progressive condition - meaning it can worsen without proper care. At Dr. Stephen Nevett and Associates, we perform advanced diagnostic testing to uncover the true cause of your symptoms. Once we understand what’s happening at the tear film level, we can create a personalized treatment plan that targets the source - not just the symptoms.

Personalized Treatment for Lasting Relief

There is no one-size-fits-all solution for dry eye. Some patients may benefit from treatments that restore oil gland function, while others may require therapies that reduce inflammation or support tear production. Our goal is to protect your long-term comfort and vision by addressing the specific underlying condition affecting your eyes.

Schedule Your Dry Eye Exam Today

Dry eye is more than a nuisance - it’s a medical condition that deserves proper care. If you’re noticing persistent irritation or any of the symptoms above, let our team help you find lasting relief.

Contact Dr. Stephen Nevett and Associates to schedule your dry eye evaluation and take the first step toward healthier, more comfortable vision. Visit our office in Lynnwood (425) 712-8443, Kirkland (425) 602-6153, or Seattle (206) 364-2273 to book an appointment today.